YOUNGSTOWN - Fourteen dogs living in severe neglect were rescued from a home on Youngstown’s east side Tuesday, after a woman turned in a stray in poor condition, leading authorities to a larger animal cruelty case.

The dogs, a mix of French bulldogs and other breeds, were found by humane agents from Animal Charity of Ohio.

The organization said the animals were severely underweight, dehydrated and suffering from urine burns.

“It seems like they were definitely not getting the proper nutrition based on how skinny they are, their skin is a mess, and a few of them seem to need to be examined for a possible obstruction formed body or severe dehydration,” said Jane MacMurchy, Executive Director of Animal Charity of Ohio.

The investigation began when the Mahoning County dog warden learned about a stray in poor health.

That stray was traced back to the home where humane agents found 14 dogs in distress.

“They’ve been through a lot of trauma for sure,” MacMurchy said, “They’re eating and drinking water like they’ve never had any before.”

The rescue has further strained an already overwhelmed shelter.

“We're bringing in 14 more dogs in an already very populated shelter," she said, "A lot of them have severe needs and the cost is something that we are struggling to keep with and we are asking for support." 

Animal Charity is seeking monetary donations to help cover the medical costs and ongoing care for the dogs and asks anyone who can donate to do so on their website.